As retail crime continues to rise across the UK, independent retailers are increasingly seeking new, creative ways to protect their stores, staff, and customers. Now, award-winning retail technology company Jisp is highlighting how digital loyalty and rewards platforms can play an unexpected – but vital – role in supporting safer, more resilient local retail.
From theft and antisocial behaviour to staff abuse, retail crime has become a pressing challenge for convenience stores. But while traditional deterrents like CCTV and security tags remain crucial, Jisp believes community-powered engagement is an often-overlooked piece of the solution.
“We know loyalty builds value—but it also builds trust and accountability,” said Alex Rimmer, Marketing & Communications Director at Jisp. “When shoppers feel connected to their local store, they’re more likely to respect it, support it, and help protect it.”
Jisp’s Scan & Save platform—used by hundreds of convenience stores across the UK—delivers instant, brand-funded rewards when shoppers scan shelf-edge barcodes in-store. It encourages repeat visits, drives basket spend, and crucially, helps build positive relationships between retailers and their local customer base.
By fostering that sense of recognition and belonging, retailers can:
- Reduce instances of crime through shopper accountability
- Build a core group of regular, respectful customers
- Spot unusual patterns of activity with real-time data insights
- Support staff morale through more positive shopper interactions
The Scan & Save platform doesn’t just support retailers—it also enables FMCG brands to fund high-impact promotions that drive loyalty and trial, all while capturing meaningful shopper insights.
In a market increasingly shaped by price pressure, safety concerns, and shopper loyalty fragmentation, Jisp believes that partnership-driven technology offers a smarter way forward.
“Loyalty shouldn’t just be about points or discounts,” added Rimmer. “It should be about building the kind of relationships that make stores stronger, safer, and more supported.”
In the face of growing challenges, Jisp is calling for retailers and industry partners to view digital loyalty not just as a sales tool—but as a strategic asset in retail crime prevention and community engagement.
As the sector navigates a period of intense pressure, the company believes it’s time to expand the definition of loyalty—to include trust, connection, and resilience.